Mapping inundation extent, frequency and duration in the Okavango Delta from 2001 to 2012

From 2001 to 2012, the Okavango Delta experienced a notable shift in inundation patterns, with maximum annual flood extents increasing after a period of lower flooding. This study, using MODIS satellite data (MOD09Q1 and MOD11A1), mapped inundation frequency and duration with high accuracy (99.4% overall accuracy, kappa coefficient of 80%). A time-varying threshold method leveraging reflectance differences between waterbodies and dry/vegetated soil successfully classified inundated areas while accounting for seasonal changes. The findings reveal a gradual decrease in maximum inundation from 2001 to 2003, followed by a steady rise peaking during 2010–2012, providing critical insights for water resource management and habitat restoration in this vital Ramsar site.

Thito, K., Wolski, P., & Murray-Hudson, M. (2016). Mapping inundation extent, frequency and duration in the Okavango Delta from 2001 to 2012. African Journal of Aquatic Science, 41(3), 267–277. https://doi.org/10.2989/16085914.2016.1173009